The language of biology is chemistry, and this has never been more true than in the forest. How does the health of a forest depend on chemicals produced in half-hidden mushrooms and fungi? And are all fungi this useful? How do these same chemicals work to clean up toxic waste sites and enable biofuel production? Explore the world of fungal enzymes, what they are, how they are produced, how they are used, and how to measure their activity. Lab procedures include learning about microarrays and spectrophotometry, and using both to measure the presence and activity of fungal enzymes that the student will extract from mushrooms.

Family Science Investigations programs offer families an opportunity to participate together in monthly science classes related to Museum research, including topics in ecology, paleontology, geology and biology. These classes are especially useful for homeschoolers looking for additional reinforcement to curriculum goals, or any family group that simply enjoys learning together!

Program Instructor: Deb Bailey and Christy Flint, Coordinators for Micro World investigate Lab.